Wellness Wednesday: May 19
HEMP SEEDS
One of the most nutritionally dense and powerful seeds on the planet, hemp seeds are an extremely beneficial addition to your diet but are often overlooked and underrated! To give these seeds the attention they deserve, we’re highlighting them as today’s Wellness Wednesday feature ingredient.
Although hemp seeds are derived from the Cannabis plant, they do not offer any mind-altering effects. Instead, they are cultivated and added to food dishes to enhance the nutritional profile of your meal.
Hemp seeds boast nearly 10 grams of protein in one, 3-tablespoon serving. Not only that, but hemp seeds are considered a “complete” source of protein, which means they contain all nine essential amino acids. These amino acids cannot be produced by the body alone and must be indigested through food, and they are necessary for building muscle.
These powerful seeds are also high in healthy unsaturated fats, including omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential for long-term heart health. More specifically, these omega-3 fatty acids can reduce blood pressure, reduce the risk of heart attacks and strokes, delay the absorption of plaque in the arteries, minimize the risk of abnormal heart rhythm, and reduce triglycerides (or unhealthy fats).
In addition, hemp seeds act as an excellent source of fiber, which, as we know, help to keep you fuller for longer, stabilize blood sugar levels, assist in weight loss and keeping a healthy weight, and aid in maintaining a healthy gut.
One of the most interesting and striking benefits of hemp seeds is that they’ve been studied to have neuroprotective effects, benefiting those with Parkinson’s, Multiple sclerosis, Alzheimer’s, those prone to seizures, and those suffering from neuropathic pain. Coupling this, studies have suggested that hemp seeds have anti-inflammatory properties, helping to manage type II diabetes, arthritis, heart disease, and metabolic syndrome.
You can find hemp seeds on top of our Pitaya bowl—a delicious mix of pink dragonfruit puree and berries with a slightly sweet and cinnamon flavor. You can also request hemp seeds on any of our açai bowls as well, or we can blend hemp seeds into your favorite protein shake or smoothie. Take advantage of these powerful little seeds!
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